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3/24/2014 - House Fire 511 N. 13th St.

Contact: Scott AbkerBattalion Cheif
Salina Fire Department

House Fire 511 N. 13th St.

On March 23, 2014 at approximately 3:18 a.m., the Salina Fire Department was dispatched to a reported house fire at 511 N. 13th St. in Salina. Engine 1, Rescue 1, Engine 2, Quint 4, Medic 4, Battalion Chief 51 and Medical Officer 44 responded. Heavy smoke could be seen in the area from 9th St. and Pine. Dispatch advised that the occupant was out of the house and the garage was on fire. Upon arrival, Engine 1 reported heavy smoke coming from the attic and attached garage areas of a single story house. Engine 1 met the occupant at the curb and confirmed all occupants were out of the house. 51 assumed command and requested Engine 2 to lay a 5” supply line from North St. to Engine 1. Engine 1 crew advanced a 1 ¾” attack line to the front door of the house and prepared to enter the structure. Ventilation was started at the front door with a positive pressure fan and the fire attack was started. As all units arrived on scene, they were assigned fire control tasks. The house had several additions, creating multiple void spaces that were difficult to find and access. The fire was eventually declared under control at 4:42 a.m. Extensive overhaul was performed to ensure that the fire was completely out. Kansas Gas and Westar were contacted to secure the utilities. The water department was contacted to shut off the water.

Salina Fire Investigator Jeff Daily arrived on scene to investigate the cause of the fire. The occupant was interviewed while the fire attack continued. The occupant reported that he was awakened by a smoke detector and found fire in the garage. The fire was determined to have started in the garage area and traveled up an interior wall to the attic of the house. The occupant had been welding and grinding on a trailer in the garage for much of the day. The fire was caused when sparks from that work came in contact with combustibles in the garage. The estimated value of the house was placed at $65,000. The house was heavily damaged and is not habitable. Red Cross was contacted for the occupant. There were no injuries associated with this fire. Additional crews were called in to staff the City and relieve those working on the scene.

Upon conclusion, all units were released from the scene and returned to service. The Salina Fire Department will be returning throughout the day Sunday to ensure the fire does not rekindle.